Jasper Ellis returns to ring after year battling dark struggles
Bendigo boxer Jasper Ellis fights for the first time in a year after struggling with mental health.
Ellis hasn't stepped into the ring since the national championships a year ago. During that time he battled mental health issues and admitted to drug use, lost the passion for boxing, and grieved the death of his close friend Bailey Holland in September.
Five months ago he rediscovered his love for the sport and began training hard to shed weight he'd gained. Ellis's partner Eden and nutritionist Jeryn Dolan played crucial roles in his recovery.
Ellis is fighting Daniel Dwyer on Saturday in a middleweight bout at Myers Flat. He carries a 6-6 career record and hasn't lost in three previous Bendigo fights.
Ellis credits boxing with potentially saving his life.
- 21
- Age
- One year since November
- Time away
- Nearly 90 kilograms
- Weight to shed
- Three undefeated fights
- Bendigo record
Why it mattersIt's a powerful example of how discipline and support can turn someone's life around during a serious mental health crisis.
AustraliaReflects the broader mental health struggles among young Australians and the role sport and community can play in recovery.
